WWE SmackDown aired for the final time in 2025. How would the blue brand close its year before the move to three hours?

The final episode of WWE SmackDown in 2025 ended with Drew McIntyre, Cody Rhodes, and Nick Aldis. This week's edition of the blue brand was a pre-recorded one, but it still featured a massive title change when Carmelo Hayes defeated Ilja Dragunov to become the new United States Champion.

On the first Friday since John Cena's retirement, here are three things we hated and three things we loved about the 12/19/25 episode of "WWE SmackDown!"

Hendry makes his SmackDown debut against The Miz in a Miracle on 34th Street Fight, and Charlotte Flair squares off against Lash Legend. The big story tonight, however, is Carmelo Hayes facing Ilja Dragunov in the champion's final Open Challenge match for the United States Championship.

WWE SmackDown kicked off with a recap of Cody Rhodes attacking Drew McIntyre at his home. Backstage on SmackDown, Cody asked if Drew was there, and Aldis reminded the champ that once McIntyre makes his public apology, Rhodes can't attack him.

Barre. John Cena tribute before retirement, Drew McIntyre suspension decision, Ilja Dragunov defends U.S. Title.

It has been a tough year for WWE's blue brand, but which episodes of Friday Night SmackDown were the best in 2025?

The year that was 2025 brought considerable success for top Superstars, all of whom became synonymous with the year. From CM Punk to Seth Rollins, Cody Rhodes to Gunther, the last 12 months have been defined by dominance for those who ruled over WWE.

El Presidente previews the final 2-hour SmackDown! Drew McIntyre returns, Ilja Dragunov defends, and Joe Hendry battles The Miz. Viva la lucha libre!

It was subsequently revealed that Rhodes and McIntyre would wrestle for the undisputed WWE title on the Jan. 9 episode of SmackDown. Their match would be the seventh Three Stages of Hell match in WWE history, and the first on the main roster since 2013. McIntyre attacked Rhodes, standing over him to close the show.